People around the country are sharing stunning photos of the early-blossoming sakura in full bloom.

For those who can’t wait for Japan’s main sakura season to start, with the blossoming of the Somei-Yoshino cherry trees, the most widespread type of cherry blossom in the country, there’s a place in Shizuoka Prefecture that’s calling your name right now.

Located roughly 155 kilometres (96 miles) south of Tokyo, in the city of Kawazu on the Izu Peninsula, the region is known around the country for its famous Kawazu variety of cherry blossom, which blooms earlier than other sakura, characteristically bursting its buds in February every year.

Blossoming at a much slower pace than many other sakura varieties, the Kawazu cherry blossom trees can be enjoyed for a longer time by visitors, and now is the peak viewing period to go and see them. The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is being held until 10 March, and visitors to the region have been sharing breathtaking photos of the blossoms for the rest of the country to enjoy online.

If you’re unable to make it down to Shizuoka, the Matsudayama Herb Garden in Tokyo’s bordering Kanagawa Prefecture is also holding a Kawazu Cherry blossom Festival until 12 March, where visitors can take a tiny train ride under the blooms.